UMaine football star arrested, charged with domestic violence assault

University of Maine running back Ramon Jefferson has been arrested and charged with domestic violence assault and criminal mischief.

Jefferson, a second-year player for the Black Bears, was arrested Wednesday night at his home by Old Town police. Jefferson posted bail that night, according to Sgt. Wade Betters, public information officer for the Bangor Police Department.

Betters said police responded to a Bangor residence at about 6 p.m. Wednesday after receiving a call about an alleged domestic violence incident. A woman was interviewed and identified Jefferson as the suspect, Betters said.

Jefferson was arrested in Old Town about two hours later and brought to the Bangor Police Department, where he was charged with Class D misdemeanor charges of domestic violence assault and criminal mischief. He is scheduled to be arraigned March 4.

If found guilty, Jefferson could face up to 364 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $2,000.

In a statement released Thursday night, the university said it was confirming news reports of the arrest and the Student Conduct Office in the Division of Student Life was conducting an investigation.

The statement read:

“Jefferson is alleged to have violated the student code of conduct and student-athlete code of conduct.

“UMaine’s Student Conduct Office in the Division of Student Life is conducting a thorough investigation and any interim disciplinary actions, such as suspension from the university, are being determined today.

“Jefferson will not participate in athletics activities pending the outcome of the investigation.

“UMaine does not comment on student conduct proceedings.”

Jefferson, 19, became the first Black Bear freshman to rush for 1,000 yards in a season when he led Maine with 1,037 yards last fall. He scored eight rushing touchdowns and had one receiving touchdown.

After sitting out the 2017 season as a redshirt, Jefferson became Maine’s lead running back in 2018 following the transfer of Josh Mack. Jefferson rushed for over 100 yards in a game three times, including a career-high 186 in a 55-27 win over Jacksonville State in the second round of the NCAA playoffs.

The 5-foot-10, 205-pound Jefferson attended Harry S Truman High School in the Bronx, New York.